AMERICAN FALLS - Librarians in Power County have started a program aimed at helping your young kids develop an interest in reading. And the best part is that it doesn't cost you anything.

Every week anywhere from 10 to 30 kids will be in this room singing songs, and playing games-learning reading skills that they'll use throughout their life. Jennifer Miller, who attended todays class with three kids said, "I thought it was a good idea to get some ideas on how to teach my kids how to read."

And Miller isn't alone. Several dozen kids and their parents were at the American Falls Library this morning reading together, and learning about phonetics. Francine Rudeen, program director said, "By the time they reach school-age if they haven't had exposure to books they just won't do as well."

The program is being funded by a $5,000 grant from the Idaho Commission for Libraries.

Each week librarians teach the kids a new reading skill. They use songs, games, and other activities to keep the kids interested while they learn. Miller said, "They teach little rhymes and little things that you can start at this age, but also things you can incoporate into my older children."

To make sure the kids continue to learn after the class is over, they actually get to take some books and other handouts home so they can practice. Andrea Dalling, who attended with her niece said, "I think it's wonderful. I used to work in child care so I know the benefit of early reading."

And that benefit increases as parents take time to read with their kids at home, and in programs like this one rather then putting them in front of a television. Heidi Hayho, who is visiting from Canada said, "My mom always read to me when we were growing up, and I love to read. So I think that it's important for learning your whole life. That's the best way to learn."

The classes will be taught every Tuesday and Friday for six weeks starting at 10:30 AM. If you're interested in attending just contact the American Falls Library to fill out a registration form.